23 Feb 07 16:11
Volvo V70
Volvo is to unveil its new-generation V70 in Geneva. With updates in line with those of the latest S80 saloon, the V70 is now longer, taller and wider; it gains a longer wheelbase for more cabin room, a wider-opening tailgate, three-way split-folding rear seats and an additional 60 litres of load space. Volvo's also promising "even more luxury, style and refinement than its predecessor." The range will include five- and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines; entry-level four-cylinder units appear to have been dropped, at least initially.
The closely-related four-wheel-drive XC70 gets an overhaul, too: this soft-roading version of the V70, with higher ground clearance and SUV-type styling details is similarly revised. Prices for both the new V70 and XC70 will be announced in the summer, with UK sales starting in September.
Volvo will also show the XC60, first seen at the Detroit Motor Show in January. Sharing much of its underpinnings with the Land Rover Freelander, Ford Galaxy and S-MAX, and Volvo's own S80/V70, it's a crossover-SUV to rival the BMW X3, Toyota RAV-4 and so on. It's still some way off production - it's not coming till 2009 - but the show "concept" previews its advanced safety systems, including radar active cruise control, design features and a 3.2-litre, bioethanol-compatible 265bhp straight-six engine.
Motor Show: Volvo XC60
